Question

This graph shows how tall five types of trees were after they grew for 10 years.

mc007-1.jpg
Which statement correctly describes the data shown in the graph and the type of observation used?
The gingko tree grew 14 feet; this is a qualitative observation.
The bur oak tree’s growth rate averaged 2.5 feet per year; this is a quantitative observation.
The bur oak tree is twice the height of the ash tree; this is a qualitative observation.
The Norway spruce grew more slowly than the sycamore every year; this is quantitative data.

Answer 1

The correct choice is:
"The bur oak tree’s growth rate averaged 2.5 feet per year; this is a quantitative observation."

Explanation: From the graph the bur oak is 25 ft after 10 years, so 25 ÷ 10 = 2.5 ft/year (a numeric measurement = quantitative).
The other options are wrong: gingko = 14 ft is quantitative (not qualitative); bur oak is not exactly twice the ash and that comparison would be quantitative; and you cannot tell year-by-year growth rates from a single 10-year height (so you cannot claim it grew more slowly every year).